7 Low Carb Side Dishes You Need To Try

Whatever you think of low carb diets, they work for a lot of people.

I have to admit, I wasn’t a fan at first. But, since doing some research on it, and a few experiments myself, I now know they can be a very effective way to lose weight, as long as it’s done in a healthy way.

One of the main reasons a lower carb diet works is because the extra protein intake keeps you feeling fuller for longer, and therefore you eat less.

I do, however, think it can be quite a challenge to shift from always having starchy carbs, like potatoes, at main meals. It’s often difficult to know what to replace them with.

So, as a bit of an experiment, I’ve recently been trying out a few different low carb side dishes myself, and I’ve found some which we find very acceptable as a family.

Low Carb Side Dishes

So, here are a few of the low carb side dishes I’ve discovered work just as well, if not better, than higher carb regulars.

1. Cauliflower “Rice”

I think this is a fantastic idea, particularly if you enjoy foods like curry or chili, and you just can’t imagine eating them without rice.

Heat a heavy skillet until hot. Add the oil, then arrange the tomatoes cut-side down in the pan and cook, uncovered, until just tender and the undersides are darkened, about 10 to 15 minutes.

Mix the parsley and garlic in a small bowl.

Carefully turn each tomato cut-side up. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Sprinkle each tomato salt and pepper, followed by equal portions of the parsley mixture and shredded cheese. Cover and cook until the cheese is melted, about 2 minutes. Serve warm.

Halve and seed the squash, then place cut side down, on lightly greased baking sheet. Bake at 200°C for about 1 hour, or until the flesh is easily pierced.

Cool for 10 minutes. Then, take a fork and scrape inside the squash to remove the “spaghetti.”

Heat a large saute pan, add a little more oil and the garlic; cook until it becomes fragrant. Add the parsley, salt, pepper and squash strands. Toss well, and sprinkle in the parmesan cheese.

Here is a video on how to make spaghetti squash

7. Mashed Cauliflower

The texture of mashed cauliflower is similar to mashed potatoes. It’s great with garlic, but would also be good with dijon mustard, chopped herbs, or grated cheese. Another option is to cook your cauliflower with one cup of stock added.

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower and garlic, and cook until very tender, about 10 minutes.

Reserve 1/4 cup of the cooking liquid, then drain and return the cauliflower to the pot. Add the oil and reserved water, 1 tablespoon at a time, and puree until smooth using an electric hand blender. Season with salt and pepper and serve.

Makes 4 servings

Even if you’re not trying to lose weight, vegetables should always be a cornerstone of a healthy diet. So, these low carb side dishes offer tasty alternatives to change things up a little from your normal meal plan.

What low carb side dishes can you share with us? I’d love to hear your suggestions…